Comments on: Your opinion is wanted – really I mean it.

By: alicamckennajohnson

alicamckennajohnson — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 15:22:36 +0000

In reply to Lynette M. Burrows. Wonderful- thank you for breaking it down for me this helps a lot!!

By: alicamckennajohnson

alicamckennajohnson — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 15:22:07 +0000

In reply to Carrie Daws (@CarrieDaws). Thanks Carrie- this helps a lot, and I'd loved to be interviewed!

By: alicamckennajohnson

alicamckennajohnson — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 03:31:28 +0000

In reply to Gail. Thanks so much Gail- I've gotten some amazing advice! Now to choose the next level LOL!

By: Gail

Gail — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 20:14:12 +0000

I like #2, but I love to tinker with blurbs. Here’s my two cents worth, keeping in mind that I probably should, you know, maybe read the book first:

Teenage years are embarrassing enough without combining acne and a disturbing tendency to burst into flame. Orphaned at five, there’s no advisor to guide young Sara when her magical inheritance spectacularly reveals itself. Then, people calling themselves the Phoenix show up, claiming to be the family she never had. Meanwhile, ancient enemies also search for the newest Child of Fire, with deadly intent. Will Sara be strong enough to survive her dangerous destiny and embrace the Fire?

By: Lynette M. Burrows

Lynette M. Burrows — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:59:50 +0000

In #1 the first sentence gives me a strong feel for where your character is at emotionally at the beginning of the story. However, I find the second paragraph very confusing and the remaining information too vague.

Regarding # 2, Kecia’s given you great advice. There’s nothing I can add to that. Following her template to revise #2, you’ll end up with a strong blurb that will appeal to readers.

In number three the second sentence is specific enough but I think the idea of a circus camp detracts from what you are trying to establish about your novel. Circus camp sound fun and exciting, the opposite of the scary ideas of changes in appearance, catching on fire, etc. If the circus camp is important, use it, but use it to strengthen the mood and theme of your story.

By: Laura Russell

Laura Russell — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:43:29 +0000

Alicia,
I’m voting for #2 although #1 has good phrases. Overall, #2 is a better emotional hook. I like the advice from Kecia to make it clear what her dreams are.

By: Serena Dracis, Author

Serena Dracis, Author — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:21:19 +0000

Has to be #2, that one made me want to read the book. Number 3 was close, but not as intriguing and #1 just made me wonder ‘huh?’ Great idea to post blurbs and get input. I may have to copy it! 😉

By: Carrie Daws (@CarrieDaws)

Carrie Daws (@CarrieDaws) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:20:58 +0000

Okay, #1 confused me! #2 helped straighten me out, but I think #3 created the most intrigue — just mysterious enough to make me want to read more without leaving me completely baffled.

And — if you’d like, I’ll do an author interview for you. 🙂

By: alicamckennajohnson

alicamckennajohnson — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 02:17:29 +0000

In reply to Mary Ball. Thank you Mary!!!

By: alicamckennajohnson

alicamckennajohnson — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:51:25 +0000

In reply to Julie Glover. Thanks Juile! I'm glad 2 did all that as that's the goal right?